Illegal brick kilns choke Assam's Ratabari, raises pollution concern

A rampant rise in illegal brick kiln operations in the Ratabari region of Assam has sparked serious environmental and economic concerns, as hundreds of unregulated units continue to operate using unscientific and hazardous methods. 

These kilns, mostly set up along the Gorkaptani road from Anipur to Cheragi in the Ramakrishnanagar constituency, are spewing thick black smoke, causing severe air pollution and health hazards for nearby residents.

 

According to sources, over 100 illegal brick kilns have been established in the area, in blatant violation of environmental norms and safety regulations. The continuous release of carbon dioxide and other harmful gases into the atmosphere has raised red flags among environmentalists, while the administration remains conspicuously silent.

 

Despite the government’s earlier formation of task forces to shut down unscientific brick kiln units, there has been little to no action on the ground. Allegations of administrative inaction and possible collusion have begun to surface, as illegal units continue to function unchecked.

 

Radheshyam Biswas, President of the Scientific Brick Kiln Association and a former Member of Parliament, voiced strong criticism of the situation. He stated, “The government is losing lakhs of rupees in revenue due to these illegal kilns. Consumers are also being misled into purchasing substandard bricks that don’t meet quality standards".

 

Meanwhile, legal kiln operators, who comply with all government regulations and use chimney-based scientific methods, are suffering financial losses despite paying taxes and dues.”

 

Biswas urged the government to take strict and immediate action against illegal operators and safeguard both the environment and legitimate industry stakeholders.